The Russian incumbent telco Rostelecom is planning to buy MegaFon from USM Group.
According to Kommersant, quoting a source close to the government, Rostelecom’s interest in an acquisition was submitted for approval at the end of 2022. It adds that three other market participants have confirmed Rostelecom’s interest, while sources close to MegaFon have indicated that other investors are also interested in the company.
On the other hand, the Federal Antimonoply Service (FAS) has told Kommersant that Rostelecom has not submitted an application to buy MegaFon.
MegaFon is one of the largest telcos in Russia, with over 74 million mobile subscribers. It assets include the OTT service Start.